Distant Blue: THE GHOST OF MY EMPTY GLASS

Written by Niamh Christian

What’s that emerging from the darkness? It’s only the one and only, Distant Blue, finally breaking their silence as they get ready to drop their latest single – The Ghost Of My Empty Glass.

Having had to cancel all plans for gigs this year due to the cursed pandemic, they decided to take their efforts back into the studio, working hard to finalise some new music for our enjoyment.

The band has become quite a fixture in Nottingham’s local music scene over the years, while simultaneously spreading their music to other cities across the UK. Now after staying quiet for so long, they’re back and better than ever.

With bigger riffs and bouncier beats, they’ve thrown themselves in the deep end of this new sound and have displayed it wondrously.  They’ve hit us with a lightning bolt of power as they take their abilities further, in a way that’ll have you wanting to get up and dance.

It’s funky, flirty and ferocious, painting a mental image of a hectic night out you probably wouldn’t be forgetting anytime soon (depending on how intoxicated you are). The dirty breakdowns compliment the groovy chorus in a way that’s dynamic and bold.

Distant Blue kindly took the time to answer some questions for me about their new single and what it means for the future of their band.

 

“The Ghost Of My Empty Glass” shows a very different side of you from your original pop-punk days, what does new direction mean for you as a band?

It’s a weird one because this song is a bit of a one-off, we experimented with a slightly more funky and poppy sound while still trying to maintain our heavier roots. Depending on how people take to this track we might or might not do something like this again.

 

Where did the inspiration come from for the song?

The Nottingham club scene, nights out in town with your mates drinking and interactions with lovely ladies.

 

With Covid-19 cancelling all your gig plans this year, have you got any other plans coming up?

We’ve mainly been focusing on writing and recording throughout this pandemic. Although we miss the live shows so much, we don’t want to rush back into it, have to cancel things and let people down. It’s all very up in the air at the moment, but when we get the green light you’ll be sure to know about it.

Can you sum up your song in a sentence?

One of the best nights I’ve ever had in song format.

 

You’ve said lyrically ‘The Ghost Of My Empty Glass’ describes Nottingham’s nightlife, how would a usual night out go for you?

First of all, pres with the boys usually at someones yard, get the tunes on and get pumped. Second, get your look right get fresh garms and make sure you stand out. Third, jump the train to town head to spoons for your second round of pres. From there, It all gets a little blurry but we usually end up in Rescue Rooms, Stealth or MOJO. After that, we see where the night takes us but more than likely it’s a fat scran and bed.

 

What are your favourite venues to play at and why?

Got to say Bodega and Rescue Rooms for our hometown shows. Outside of Nottingham, we really enjoyed West Street Live in Sheff, Verve Bar in Leeds because it had the best interior we’ve ever seen.

 

What venues do you hope to play in the near future?

Jimmys in Manchester, the Rock City main stage, Camden Underworld.

 

What new cities are you wanting to play next?

Manchester and London are the big ones, but it’d be nice to work our way up to Scotland and down to Brighton as soon as we can.

 

Have you always been interested in music? Was there a particular moment that made you say "Woah! I want to do this!"?

Watching live Green Day and Nirvana shows on the internet when we were youths. Generally, music has always been a big part of our everyday lives, we don’t remember a time when we didn’t want to do this.

 

Has your musical journey had a deliberate direction, or did it simply gradually evolve in whatever direction it found?

We’ve always wanted to make Rock music as we are all big fans of it, however there was no deliberate direction. It’s just evolved into what our sound is today.

What music are you currently listening to?

Ed’s been on the gangsta rap vibes recently, Peter has been listening to Underoath and the new Ghostemane album, Kieran’s been delving into the depths of Hip Hop history as usual and Jack has been listening to Thundercat a lot.

What has been the most challenging aspect of your current release?

Not being able to book a release show due to COVID.

 

Do you plan your music releases, or do you just finish a song and release it?

We like to plan our releases, but we have a bad history of sticking to the plan. However, in the end it all comes together through the 4 brains we have between us. We did plan this release a lot better than we usually do.

 

Do you have any pre-show rituals?

We used to have one which included energy drinks but after one show where we played the set at 300mph, we put a stop to it. Now we like to just huddle up and get hyped right before the show.

 

Last year you went on tour, what was that like? What were your favourite moments?

It was the best time of our lives so far, we had so much fun being on tour, playing with quality bands, exploring the cities, and getting messy after the shows.

 

Have you had moments where you considered giving all this up?

We’ve never come across such problems that put us in that kind of mindset. I guess that somewhat shows we are cut out for it. We’ve all had arguments and get on each other nerves, but at the end of the day, we could never see ourselves doing anything else.

 

In years to come, what do you hope your fans remember you for?

Iconic live shows, Crazy after-parties, emotionally relatable records, and the journey from here to the top.

 

 You can follow Distant Blue on their social media's below:

FaceBook- https://www.facebook.com/OfficialDistantBlue/           

Youtube- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6ESxqEPFrn0rfAuTzqfPKQ

Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/artist/36gtG3aOBV2x6jKQgIWAWu

Twitter-  https://twitter.com/distantblueuk

Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/distantblueuk/  

Listen to The Ghost Of My Empty Jar HERE

Fading Blonde: 25

Written by Niamh Christian

Fading Blonde have finally re-released their song '25'. After putting this song out late last year, the band made the hard decision to take it down from streaming platforms after deciding they could definitely work on the artwork and mastering.

Eventually, they have managed to give this song the finishing touches it deserves. and have just re-released it for you to all hear the new and improved '25'.

Fading Blondes' iconic, unique sound has been beautifully captured in the recording of this song. With a funky-punky upbeat bounce to it, along with gentle delicate vocals that stretch to impressive depths. 

It's a catchy tune with passionate lyrics written from the heart, which will transport you to a place of deep emotion. It's a definite must listen to for indie/alt-rock fans, with an atmospheric sound that'll have the hairs on the back of your neck stood on end. 

Fading Blonde really outdid theirselves with the re-work on this song, it's emotionally raw with gripping guitars that'll have you wanting to get up and dance.

Listen to the all new 25 HERE

South Hours: OUTSIDE

Written by Niamh Christian

Rising through Essex's music scene, South Hours have been packing out venues for the past few years, and have now begun to release songs that have only ever been heard live before. Starting out in college and writing music in a shed, they have begun to bring their music alive in the beauty of studios and venues throughout East Essex.

The trio really started to catch attention after the release of their first single back in early 2018, 'Bruises'. After recording and releasing this debut single themselves, they were overwhelmed by the attraction it got, and the number of playlists it instantly started getting added to.

Their most recent single release 'Outside' came out during lockdown period back in May, pleasing their followers in these troubled times. Working closely with Monster Florence’s Tom Donovan on ‘Outside’ just months after he had been working with Miles Kane, this song really is a milestone for the boys. 
The mystical sound created by atmospheric guitars holds everything we love most about the indie-pop genre, from the melodic, lighthearted vocals to the emphasised harmonies. 
It's heartfelt lyrics and catchy tune really bring this song alive, combined with gentle vocals and a slow but dramatic instrumental rhythm.

Currently studying at universities in London and Southampton, they are working towards really gaining an understanding of the industry as they make their mark on the music scene.

You can listen to South Hours 'Outside' HERE

Two Neighbours: SELF TITLED EP - TWO NEIGHBOURS

Written by Niamh Christian 

Two Neighbours have been creating quite the name for themselves over these past few months, with 3 single releases throughout 2020 gaining them tens of thousands of monthly listeners through spotify, and then just last month they dropped their debut, self-titled EP 'Two Neighbours'. 

Prior to the EP they released two single from it: 'Back Then' and 'Little Mila'. These managed to create quite a lot of hype around the hard-pop duo

The opening track 'Where I Wanna Be', only being just under 2 minutes long, is an elegant introduction to the EP. With angelic vocals singing gently over majestic backing music, it's a very soft toned number, setting the pace for the following songs. 

Following is one of my personal favourites, 'Little Mila'. This song was released originally in July and shows the groups grittier side, with rougher sounding guitars used in the chorus. The vocals are sultry as she sings 'Grooving to the Who in some thigh-high boots'. The songs spunky and full of edge, with an alluring sound and hardcore beat.

The first single released for this EP was 'Back Then', released back in June, we can assume this was the song that built up the anticipation for 'Two Neighbours'. A passionate song written about a fallible modern romance, with synthy backing vocals and a soulful chorus. It's full of attitude and moxie and creates an amorous image for the listener.

Combining acoustic guitars and gentle singing, with many references to the 60s, combined with contemporary and zany rhythm, 'Peace and Love' paints a beautiful picture of a modern-day Woodstock dream. It's full of sass and stamina and has a deeply profound, catchy chorus.

The final song on the EP, 'Orange Rose' is an elegant yet moody tune, singing about love and adoration. Showcasing pain through endearment with lyrics such as 'I don't need to de-thorn you, although it hurts to hold'. It's distinguished and enticing, singing of mystique and allure. 

The electropop duo stated when asked about their debut release “This EP is for people still wiggling in their skin. It’s inspired by longing… longing for success, love, for the past, the experience of someone trying to find their own sound and path”

You can listen to 'Two Neighbours' HERE 

Springs: DESIRE

Written by Niamh Christian

 Are you in need of a new indie bop to break your heart? Birmingham band Springs may have just brought out the song for you with their latest release 'Desire'. This indie/alt-rock anthem is loaded with raw emotion and lyrics sung like a heartfelt diary entry.

Starting out in late 2019, it's coming up to a year since Springs started creating music, with each release showing their development as musicians. I would definitely say this is their best one yet, showing how they've grown from friends creating music to serious musicians in no more than a few months. 

'Desire' brings a sense of nostalgia to listeners with references to a painful memory, with vulnerable vocals that pull on your heartstrings singing 'wanted to die to feel alive'.

The simplified guitar riffs compliment the vocals in a way that makes them stand out when they hit hardest, building up to a dramatic crescendo at the end. 

In the words of frontman Didds; 'The story takes place in a single night and is about a whirlwind romance. It's about breaking someone's heart, which we all do but all choose to push out of our minds'.

He also added 'We're really excited about this new direction of our sound!'

Listen to 'Desire' HERE

Fading Blonde: WALKING DISTANCE

Written by Niamh Christian

If your looking for some good news to brighten your day, Nottingham's Indie outfit Fading Blonde have released their first track of the year: 'Walking Distance'. An eccentric, gripping number describing the struggles of physical distance and coping with the heartache of not being with the one you love.

The emotive lyrics are hard-hitting, making you want to sing along with all your might. It's relatable and meaningful, one which many can connect to on a personal level. They manage to create a story through their moving lyrical choices, - 'I've been drowning myself in what we used to be' 

Fading Blonde aren't afraid to test their musical boundaries, always managing to create a new yet recognisable sound with each new tune they release, and 'Walking Distance' is no exception to this.

The vocals are sung with so much soul and raw emotions, you can feel the frustration as if it's your own. Especially when the instruments are cut back and lead singer Evan's powerful voice is really amplified before the music drops back in. 

The guitar's iconically make the song recognisable from the first few notes, with a catchy, pop-y sound, gradually getting punchier gradually as the song progressed, especially the crisp and dramatic little guitar solo.

'Walking Distance' is now available on all streaming sites.

Listen to Walking Distance HERE!

Left-Hand-Lane: MY CONFESSION

Written by Niamh Christian



With everything going on in the world at the moment, it's important to focus on the positives in life: one being that Left-Hand-Lane have released a new single.
'My Confession' has a much darker undertone than that heard in 'Skank', with cynical, heartfelt lyrics expressing the feelings of losing yourself and being disconnected.
The song shows vulnerability and emotion yet it's played in such a way that lightens your spirits and makes you want to sing along with all the strength your lungs can take!
(I've already caught myself singing it).
It represents a bunch of twisted emotions and creates this connection with the listener to hit them right in the soul. Starting with a hypnotic guitar riff and soothing vocals, the song quickly evolves into the catchy, powerful percussion beat that'll be playing in your head for days after hearing it.
Having had their tour devastatingly cut short, this was exactly what their fans and followers needed at this time.

Listen to 'My Confession' HERE

Distant Blue: WHATEVER MAKES YOU FEEL SAFE

Written by: Niamh Christian



Distant Blue tracks come like snowflakes - no two are exactly the same. Constantly switching up their sound, you never know what to expect next. All that you can be certain on is it will be BIG!

Notts lads Distant Blue finished their tour following the release of their debut EP "MYMINDISOUTOFME" late last year and decided they weren't going to wait a moment before working on new music. 'Whatever makes you feel safe' is the first (hopefully of many) songs to be released this year by Distant Blue and they put their all into it.
Opening with a hardcore, staggering riff, they really held back on nothing when mastering this number. Vocalist Ed sings the first verse tunefully and filled with a soul before breaking into the chorus, the full raspiness, and grit of his vocal ability showing further throughout the song, guaranteed to shake you to your core.

The lyrical content of this track embraces feelings of loss and breaking free, with religious indoctrination accompanied by the upbeat tone and the scratchy riffs to create this raw and raucous song. Using electric elements to create an atmosphere combined with attitude and ambition to form a tone of rebellion and rock and roll swagger.
Accompanying the single is a music video, the first one Distant Blue have released since summer 2018 when they released 'Whirlpool'. Very different from that of whirlpool though as this one shows much more depth and detail as you see the boys wandering through a woodland scene in a glitchy video that will put you on the edge of your seat.
A track guaranteed to "Get your feet off the ground" and to blow your brains out. It sure goes to show that Distant Blue aren't about to slow down any time soon...


You can list to 'Whatever makes you feel safe' HERE!!!

Live Review: KICK THE CLOWN - The Sunflower Lounge 05/03/2020

Written by Niamh Christian

Kick The Clown got to play a very unexpected headline gig Thursday night after the unfortunate cancellation of Vicarage due to sickness. However it sure as hell didn’t spoil the fun.

KICK THE CLOWN - Niamh Christian

Up first were the Brummie Rockers in Kanvas bringing an element of grunge and grit to the show with distorted guitars and a thrashy beat. The angsty atmosphere these guys created had the crowd going wild. Their heavy riffs and raspy vocals formed dirge-like songs with adrenaline-fueled tempos.

KANVAS - Niamh Christian

Following them was the all-girl band SPIT. However, for this particular gig, they were 4 girls and a lad in a wig due to one of their members not being able to play. It was indeed worrying for the band when they had to last-minute call in someone to fill in with no rehearsals whatsoever but I’ve got to say they pulled it off very damn well! 

Pumped up and full of energy, they had the whole room jumping off their feet. You really can't help but love a band with as much character as these especially when they're creating songs as fiery and catchy as they are.

SPIT - Niamh Christian

If the fact they have the best name ever hasn't already made you fall crazy in love with Kick The Clown then seeing them live is guaranteed to. Well, assuming you don't mind nearly getting killed with a mic stand or having a bottle of water thrown over you. There's nothing chill or quiet about these guys, their hard-edged melodies and quick-paced riffs along with insane frontman-ship creates a show of pure carnage.

KICK THE CLOWN - Niamh Christian

Their raw, rough and unrefined sound and rebellious lyrics along with such strong crowd control had Kick The Clown raising hell in the Sunflower Lounge and the crowd going wild in a whirl of chaos.

KICK THE CLOWN - Niamh Christian

A night that seemed to be falling apart in the day ended up going very successfully and all the bands that played brought their A-game!

Live Review: THE BUTTERS ALIENS -The Sunflower Lounge 31/01/2020

Written by Niamh Christian

THE BUTTERS ALIENS - https://www.instagram.com/megb.captures/

It's a rare occasion to get a line up as raw and energetic as this. One of Birmingham's very best, The Butters Aliens supported by The Earnest Spears, P.E.T, Blick Black And The Chilliholers and Euphoric bringing one of the most enjoyable gigs I've been to in Birmingham so far. 

P.E.T - https://www.instagram.com/megb.captures/

I arrived just in time to catch P.E.T's set, which was a great start to the night. This perky 4 piece outfit are full of angst and attitude and brought it all to their set. Combining girl swagger and punk rock power, they really made an impression. 

BLICK BLACK AND THE CHILLIHOLERS - https://www.instagram.com/megb.captures/

The loud and shirtless dudes in Blick Black and The Chilliholers came in screaming Busted and causing havoc. Their gnarly sound and angry songs had the crowd jumping off their feet.

THE EARNEST SPEARS - https://www.instagram.com/megb.captures/

Next on the line-up, I had the pleasure of getting to see the brilliant new wave punks The Earnest Spears. Their juicy riffs and powerful performance was one that really caught my attention. As if their well-attired look wasn't enough to instantly make me a fan, they also showed pure musical ability along with show stopping frontmanship.

THE BUTTERS ALIENS - https://www.instagram.com/megb.captures/

Last but certainly not least we had the nights headliners, The Butters Aliens. Already being one of my all-time favourites, I was extremely excited to see this set and they did not disappoint. They brought the roof down with their catchy songs, crowd interaction and energetic performance they managed to put on a show that wasn't short of excitement.

Live Review: ITALIA 90 - The Sunflower Lounge 30/01/2020

Written by Niamh Christian

Italia 90 - Niamh Christian

Last Thursday saw the Sunflower Lounge bring together some punk madness with a line up of 3 brilliantly raw, energetic acts all bringing their own unique element to a night of pure chaos.

HOTPLATE - Niamh Christian

Opening up the night was Hotplate, performing tuneful melodies against raspy shouting and powerful lyrics they got the audience ready for a hell of a night. Their heavy set included a lot of movement and the messy spilling of a beer. What could be more punk than that?


Up next was the 4 piece punk rockers from Worcester Kick The Clown, who had everything from raw, chaotic energy to an in your face performance and a clown mask. The rowdy swagger loud riffs were nothing short of brilliant performance and are definitely the kind of music you want to be seeing live rather than through earplugs.

KICK THE CLOWN - Niamh Christian

Headlining this insane line up was no other but the Londoners Italia 90 with music that seems to draw a middle between 80's post-punk and 90's garage punk. An exciting, manic and political performance so intense we got joined by their frontman in the audience. They gave the night a showstopping end and brought the roof down doing so!

ITALIA 90 - Niamh Christian

Take Breath: IF I SEE TOMORROW

Written by Niamh Christian

Take Breath have finally released their much anticipated first single: If I See Tomorrow. Forming only last year, this is the first big step of the metalcore bands journey into the world of music.



The track has strong vocals showing an experimental variation in tone, blending in hoarse and husky screams and vocal roars.
The songs strong build-up creates an atmospheric drop when the beat starts and the pace picks up. The melodic interlude empathises the emotion behind the lyrics.
Accompanying the single is a powerful music video showing what seems to be a group therapy session. It's a very well done video that really represents the meaning behind the songs lyrics.

You can hear the song and watch the video for "If I See Tomorrow" HERE

You can catch Take Breath playing at the Sunflower Lounge in Birmingham on the 23rd February.